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Kate Griswold, owner and organizer of Scrapbooks Mega Meet, suggests scrapping an “Unforgettable Memories” book or a “Random Treasures” book, and clear out that box full of excess photos. The book can make a fun conversation-starter and will provide visual memories for years to come. Try scrapping chronologically or by the seasons if you’re stuck on where to begin.

Griswold sees a wide variety of ideas in the scrapbooking industry and will likely see even more ideas at the annual Great Lakes Mega Meet, which this year takes place May 8-10 at the Rock Financial Showplace in Novi. The event provides scrapbookers with an opportunity to gather new ideas, purchase the latest scrapbooking products and learn from experts in the industry.

Try the following ideas to get your photos out of those shoeboxes and into albums that last forever:

l Scrapbooking the Seasons

The warm summer sun and a cool autumn wind can provide beautiful backdrops to your photos. When scrapbooking the seasons, consider these tips:

1. Use color. Consider the color of the leaves, the sky or water when choosing the right papers to make your photos pop.

2. Use even the unusable in your photos. While the picture of Aunt Betty planting flowers was a little off center, consider using some of the background in your design. Crop the photo and place the picture, but use the scraps to create unique embellishments throughout the page.

3. Keep it simple. You don’t need to fill up a page with photos. Showcasing one or two photos on a page is a simple way to bring emotion and intimacy to your scrapbook.

l Everyday Life

Remember there’s more to life than holiday get-togethers and annual family trips. Scrap your ordinary life - what a legacy to leave your family! Consider these tips to scrapbooking your everyday life:

1. Scrap it all. Scrap the things you love and the things you hate. You’re recording memories as well as activities.

2. Don’t forget to journal. Write down your daily routine and the things you’ll want to remember for years to come. Remember, your handwriting adds a special touch as well.

3. Scrap everyday elements. Take photos of your refrigerator, closet or bedroom. It’s a great way to keep a visual journal of your life today to help you remember it tomorrow.

Here are some additional thoughts when scrapbooking odds and ends photos:

l Have lots of pictures with children making funny faces instead of smiling? Use them anyway. Gather all those goofy faces from every holiday and reunion, and combine them into a page or mini-album. It’s a great way to showcase your little one’s personality.

l Didn’t take as many pictures as you thought or would have liked to have? Fill in your pages with journaling, or postcards and brochures. Even sales receipts are a unique way to record your life.